Politicians fanning flames of violence

January 20, 2011

What shot Rep. Gabrielle Giffords?

The taproot for the fuel of this fiery rhetoric is within Congress itself. A member calls out rudely during a major address. This gives license for someone to yell from the gallery while business is conducted.

It is further fueled by politicians' reference to bullets, targets, enemies, reloads and the like. Guns and such are carried, without great need, to public gatherings.

While not further fueled, it is fanned by talking heads who personally gain from whipping up frenzy within whatever group they are addressing. This seemingly without concern that their word is not whispered subtly but heard by all.

Not all who hear listen. Not all who hear are secure in themselves. "Sticks and stones…" the old rhyme goes. But now the words can kill you.